The Oldham County Schools Arts Center’s Lavelle Smith Dance Camp returns in June with its biggest camp to date.
Internationally renowned choreographer Lavelle Smith Jr. who is a MTV Award winning choreographer having worked with Beyonce Knowles, the Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, and Janet Jackson has invited internationally renowned choreographer, friend, and colleague, Eddie Garcia to be this year’s guest host.
This will be the first time two original Michael Jackson dancers reunite to teach since the days of touring with Michael Jackson on the Bad Tour, and it is happening in Crestwood at the Oldham County Schools Arts Center June 20 to 24.
“I’ve worked with Eddie for almost 25 years," tells Smith of his friend, “We grew up in show business in Hollywood and we’ve worked around the world sharing dance in over 200 cities. Eddie and I have worked with Michael Jackson and a list of other impressive artists on tours, award shows, videos, and films so its natural we would teach together at my dance camp and we are honored to have him.”
Eddie Garcia is an accomplished director, choreographer, dancer and all around entertainer. At just 16 years old, Garcia’s incredible dancing style and technique had delivered him to the world stage via Janet Jackson.
Less than one year later, Janet’s older brother, Michael Jackson, hired Eddie to join him on (what would become the first of several) world tours with “The King of Pop.” It was during those invaluable years of touring where Eddie was able to fine tune his innate ability to direct and choreograph. He has performed around the world and worked with many of today’s most celebrated stars including Adam Lambert, Sheryl Crow, Jane’s Addiction, Jennifer Lopez, Paula Abdul, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Brandy.
Smith says of Garcia, “We are all so excited for our students to experience his knowledge, this will be a moment they will never forget. Our students deserve the best.”
The Oldham County Schools Arts Center is proud to host the LaVelle Smith Dance Camp with the talents of two master choreographers and is excited to share this amazing opportunity with dancers from all around the United States.
The camp is designed for participants age 8 through adults with all levels of experience.
Cost is $125 for half-day, $195 for full-day, and $45 for observers.
Coaches and dance teachers who have 10 or more registered students can send one teacher for free.
To register, 241-6018 or visit www.ocsartscenter.org.